Description
This Apple Cider Glazed Chicken recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a fall-inspired meal. Tender chicken breasts are coated in a rich glaze made from apple cider, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and herbs, creating a comforting and elegant dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) apple cider (not vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Optional garnish: Thinly sliced apples or fresh herbs
Instructions
- Pat chicken dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in apple cider, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, thyme, rosemary, and apple cider vinegar. Stir to combine and dissolve the sugar.
- Let the glaze simmer 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes glossy.
- Add chicken back into the skillet and coat with the glaze. Reduce heat to low and cook for another 5–7 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Spoon glaze over the top and garnish with apple slices or fresh thyme before serving.
Notes
- Use real apple cider, not vinegar, for the best flavor.
- Simmer glaze slowly to prevent burning and allow it to thicken naturally.
- Add a pat of butter at the end for extra richness and shine.
- Let chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g